Whitley Bay’s new-look squad begin training for pre-season

Julian Tyley – Whitley Bay FC correspondent

Whitley Bay FC began their pre-season training at the weekend with a number of new faces in the squad.

Former Team Northumbria duo, goalkeeper Andy Jennison and midfielder Mark Bertram, have been brought in, as has winger Kris Hughes from Billingham Synthonia.

Returning to Hillheads from Marske United is popular defender Steve Gibson, who was a member of Bay’s FA Vase winning side in 2011.

The newcomers joined many of last season’s squad members as they were put through their in the first of three training sessions ahead of this weekend’s trip across the border when two friendly fixtures have been arranged.

On Saturday, the opposition is Scottish Lowland League side Dalbeattie Star, who Whitley have met in pre-season fixtures three times in the past.

A supporters’ club bus has been provided and a sizeable contingent of Bay fans will be making the journey, leaving Hillheads at 11.30am.

The players are staying overnight in Dumfries before taking on Scottish League Two side Annan Athletic on Sunday afternoon, kick-off 2pm.